Orange County Features Several Holiday Traditions

Whether it’s classic theater performances, toy drives, cozy story times or visits with Santa Claus himself, there’s plenty happening in Orange County this holiday season. Here are some popular things to do!

Listed as one of the top 100 holiday parades in the United States, the Newport Beach Boat Parade is an incredible display of festively decorated yachts and waterfront homes, guaranteed to put you in a festive spirit. The parade is so popular that special dining cruises extend over 7 days (some cruises are already sold out) December 13th -20th, 2015. (5:30pm – 9:00pm cruising. For reservations, call 949-650-2412 with boarding at 3101 West Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92663)

Annual Drive-Thru Nativity and Food Drive

This annual event reenacts the story of Christ’s birth with 10 live scenes. Visitors simply drive-thru or walk the campus at Mount of Olives Church to view the scenes. Actors and animals (including sheep, goats and a camel) help to bring the story to life. Non-perishable food items will also be accepted to help stock South County Outreach’s food pantry (not mandatory). Dec. 10th-11th at 6pm-10pm. Mount of Olives Church, 24772 Chrisanta Dr., Mission Viejo. Free. 949-837-7467

Start off with hot chocolate and cookies from 5:30pm-6pm, then head off into the woods for an easy, starlit, 30-minute ranger-led night hike. Participants should wear warm jackets, good walking shoes and bring a flashlight. Dec. 10th at 5:30pm-7 pm. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange. Free. To make a reservation, call 714-973-6835.

Holiday Music Celebration

William R. Mason Park is hosting a special holiday event at it’s amphitheater to put patrons in a merry spirit with performances by high school performing arts students. There will also be a story read-along, sing-alongs and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Dec. 11th at 4pm-6pm. William R. Mason Regional Park, 18712 University Drive, Irvine. Free. 949-923-2223.

A family musical event that looks in at the lives of families as they share and celebrate many years of holiday memories and discover the true meaning of Christmas. All ages are welcome. Childcare will be provided. Dec. 11th & 12th at 6pm-7:30pm. Christ Community Church of Laguna Hills, 25382 MacKenzie, Laguna Hills. Free admission. 949-586-6850.

Sugar, spice and everything nice will be on display at the Ritz-Carlton. The pastry team will spend more than 400 hours to create the gingerbread display that will highlight a surf-inspired theme. Made from gingerbread, doughnuts, sugar cubes, waffles, pretzels, cream puffs, rolls, cookies, crackers, cereal, macaroons, dried fruit, chocolate shavings and candy, this is a holiday sight to see. 9am-9pm at The Ritz-Carlton. Laguna Niguel, One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point. Free admission. 949-240-2000.

About Rebecca Milkey

Rebecca Milkey is a 20- year marketing veteran and Director for Southern California for Hornblower Cruises & Events. She is past president of SDMPI and member of SDAMA, founder of San Diego Pet Day on the Bay and the San Diego Whale Festival. Rebec... Read More